China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate Luohe
In a significant stride towards enhancing its naval capabilities, China has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People\u2019s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China\u2019s Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" is a cutting-edge vessel with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This new-generation frigate has been independently developed and constructed by China, showcasing advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and firepower integration. These enhancements are expected to significantly boost the overall performance and combat readiness of the PLA Navy.
Equipped with strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and a wide range of military missions, the Luohe will play a vital role in enhancing the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its deployment underscores China\u2019s commitment to modernizing its naval forces to meet evolving security challenges.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was initially confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels like the Luohe is part of normal arrangements to meet national security requirements and aligns with the overall objectives of naval development.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country\u2019s sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu said, emphasizing China\u2019s commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
